Windows 10 gives you several ways to jump between open windows, virtual desktops and monitors. Keyboard shortcuts are fastest, and Task View shows everything at once. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027. The same shortcuts work on Windows 11.
Quick Answer
Press Alt and Tab to switch windows, Windows key and Tab for Task View, Windows key, Ctrl and the Left or Right arrow to change virtual desktops, and Windows key and P to change how multiple monitors display.
How to Toggle Between Screens in Windows 10
- Hold Alt and tap Tab to cycle through open windows. Release Alt to open the selected one.
- Press the Windows key and Tab to open Task View and click any window or desktop.
- In Task View, click New desktop to create a virtual desktop.
- Press the Windows key, Ctrl and the Left or Right arrow to move between virtual desktops.
- With two monitors, press the Windows key, Shift and the Left or Right arrow to move the active window to the other screen.
- Press the Windows key and P to choose Duplicate, Extend or Second screen only.
Screen-Switching Shortcuts
| Shortcut | What it does |
|---|---|
| Alt + Tab | Switch windows |
| Windows + Tab | Task View |
| Windows + Ctrl + Left or Right | Change virtual desktop |
| Windows + Shift + Left or Right | Move window to other monitor |
| Windows + P | Choose display mode |
| Windows + D | Show the desktop |
Troubleshooting
- Alt and Tab shows browser tabs: turn that off in Settings, System, Multitasking.
- Second monitor not detected: open Settings, System, Display and click Detect.
- Window stuck off-screen: select it with Alt and Tab, then press the Windows key and an arrow key.
- More tips: how to switch between screens on Windows and how to bring all windows to one screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a virtual desktop and a second monitor?
A virtual desktop is a separate workspace on the same screen; a monitor is physical hardware.
Can I switch screens with a mouse?
Yes. Click Task View on the taskbar, or hover over taskbar icons.
How do I close a virtual desktop?
Open Task View and click the X on the desktop thumbnail.
Do these shortcuts work on Windows 11?
Yes, they are the same.
Summary
- Alt + Tab for windows.
- Windows + Tab for Task View.
- Windows + Ctrl + arrows for desktops.
- Windows + Shift + arrows for monitors.
- Windows + P for display mode.
Kermit Matthews runs Live2Tech from just outside Philadelphia. He is an IT specialist with over 20 years of experience, from a university help desk to small-business IT, IT management and his own consulting practice, and has written tech guides full time since 2020. Steps are checked against the current software on a real device or the maker’s official documentation. More about Kermit.